FA Rimfires

[SingleFan]

I'm considering purchasing an FA M97 in 17HMR with 17 mach 2 cylinder.

Any GB users have one of those animals that could comment on the gun?

I'm plenty familiar with FA's, just not the 97 in a rimfire.  I'm also considering the FA83 Rimfire Varmint, but I'd rather tote the 97.

[TScottO]

I shoot a 97/22 with the standard chamber and it shoots thumb nail size groups at 25 yards and I cannot see much difference at 50 yards. The match cylinder is supposed to shrink groups about another tenth of an inch. If you are looking for supreme rifle like accuracy in a rimfire, a guy at FA said told me to get the large frame gun. He said the large frame guns are more accurate.

Needless to say, I don’t have any experience with the 17’s but I don’t see any reason why they would not be a dandy gun.

Take Care,
Scott

[palgeno]

Got a 7 1/2 inch 97 with standard 22lr and 22mag cylinders a couple of years ago----accuracy is excellent---better than I can shoot---rested groups with the 22lr using the ammo it likes are about 1/2 inch at 50 yds---and I found that I am better with it when wearing a glove----my hand is average size but the grip seems a little small and the glove keeps me from lateral movement when pressing the trigger---the model 83 fills my hand better. I love that little model 97 anyway. :wink: pg

[SingleFan]

How is carrying the 7-1/2"  ?  I was thinking maybe the 5-1/2" to carry in a cross draw holster.

[palgeno]

Honestly, I don't think you would notice the difference in length when carrying crossdraw because of the angle of the barrel----on strong side carry you would notice the longer barrel only as you draw---the grip would be in the same place anyway. I am of average height and I carry 3 different non-scoped 7 1/2 inchers strong side and a 5 incher strong side without problems. I carry Contenders and Encores with scopes in a bandolier crossdraw. Hope that helps. :grin: pg